Explosion protection

Depending on the type of substances occurring, potentially explosive areas are not equally endangered. The frequency and duration of the occurrence of the substances result in different protection requirements for the equipment. Hazardous areas are divided into different danger zones. The higher the probability of an explosive atmosphere, the higher the demands placed on the equipment, for example, to prevent the formation of sparks or hot surfaces. The ATEX categories are as follows:

• Zone 0: Area where an explosive atmosphere as a mixture of air and combustible gases, vapours or mists is present constantly, for a longer period of time or frequently.
• Zone 1: Area where, during normal operation, an explosive atmosphere may occasionally form as a mixture of air and combustible gases, vapours or mists.
• Zone 2: Area where an explosive atmosphere as a mixture of air and combustible gases, vapours or mists normally does not occur during normal operation or only for a short time.